On May 30, 2011, All-China Women's Federation, the Ministry of Health, and China Children and Teenager's Fund co-hosted a launching ceremony of “National Action to Eliminate Infant Anemia” at the Great Hall of the People. 

    This campaign aims to improve the nutrition of infants aged 6 to 36 months old in poverty-stricken rural areas by soliciting donations and providing infants with food supplements.

Monday's launch ceremony “National Action to Eliminate Infant Anemia” at the Great Hall of the People.

    The action will take place in state-level counties with its focus on poverty reduction in 11 provinces and regions in western China, thus it aims to benefit 7.86 million infants in 592 counties.

    Chen Zhili, Vice Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee and President of the All-China Women's Federation attended and gave speech at yesterday's ceremony.

     In her speech, Chen said that although government support and rapid social and economic development have greatly improved the livings of people, certain problems still exist such as children’s nutrition deficiencies. Specifically, vitamin A and D, iron and zinc deficiencies have increased the rate of anemia, malnutrition and growth retardation especially in rural areas. Therefore, Chen said that it is important to urge for scientifically balanced infant nutrition and that all levels of women’s federation will be involved in this campaign to benefit the children and families in need. 

    Chen concluded that she hopes all social walks would support this action to promote children's healthy growth. In addition, Chen emphasized the social role of news media in increasing the public awareness of the issue.

    The ceremony raised 30 million yuan (US$4,615,384) from various companies and individuals supporters.

Vice Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee and President of the All-China Women's Federation Chen Zhili (L) are showing their donation certificate.

County representatives of poverty reduction campaign receive infant food supplements.

Attendees making donations at ceremony.